Bend, Oregon, isn’t just an outdoor playground for adults—it offers plenty of activities and attractions for families to enjoy year-round. From hiking trails and museums to seasonal festivals and adventure parks, Bend is a great place to create lasting memories with your kids. Whether you’re a local or visiting with family, this post highlights the best family-friendly activities in Bend that will keep everyone entertained.
1. Explore the High Desert Museum
The High Desert Museum is one of Bend’s most popular attractions for families, offering a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Located just minutes from downtown, the museum features exhibits on the wildlife, history, and culture of the High Desert region. Kids love the live animal exhibits, including birds of prey and river otters, as well as interactive displays.
Highlights for Families:
- Meet live animals, including owls, hawks, and otters.
- Explore hands-on exhibits about Native American history and early pioneers.
- Walk the nature trails that surround the museum.
Pro Tip: Plan your visit in the morning to catch the daily animal talks and demonstrations.
2. Spend the Day at Drake Park and Mirror Pond
Located along the Deschutes River in downtown Bend, Drake Park is a family favorite. This scenic park features plenty of open space for kids to run and play, as well as picnic areas and beautiful views of Mirror Pond. During the summer, the park hosts events like Munch & Music, where families can enjoy live music and food vendors while relaxing by the river.
Family-Friendly Activities:
- Feed the ducks along Mirror Pond.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch in the shade.
- Attend seasonal events, such as the Bend Christmas Parade or summer concerts.
Pro Tip: Bring bikes or scooters for the kids to ride along the park’s paved paths.
3. Float the Deschutes River
One of Bend’s most iconic summer activities is floating down the Deschutes River. Families can rent tubes or paddleboards from local outfitters and spend the afternoon leisurely floating from Farewell Bend Park to Drake Park. The float takes about 1-2 hours, and shuttle services are available to transport you back to your starting point.
What Families Love:
- Safe, calm waters make it perfect for kids.
- Enjoy beautiful scenery along the riverbanks.
- Stop at the Bend Whitewater Park for fun rapids.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget sunscreen and water shoes for the little ones!
4. Visit Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory
Located just 20 minutes from Bend, the Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory offers a fun mix of nature education and stargazing. Kids can learn about local wildlife at the nature center and explore hands-on exhibits. In the evening, families can head to the observatory for stargazing sessions, where telescopes provide incredible views of the night sky.
Family-Friendly Highlights:
- Interactive displays about birds, reptiles, and mammals.
- Family stargazing nights with access to powerful telescopes.
- Nature trails that wind through Sunriver’s beautiful scenery.
Pro Tip: Check the observatory’s schedule for special events like meteor showers and constellation tours.
5. Discover Adventure at Mountain Air Trampoline Park
For a rainy day or when the kids need to burn off energy, Mountain Air Trampoline Park is a perfect choice. This indoor trampoline park offers hours of fun, with open jump areas, foam pits, dodgeball courts, and a special toddler zone.
Why Kids Love It:
- Bounce on wall-to-wall trampolines.
- Play dodgeball and basketball on trampoline courts.
- Explore the foam pits for safe tumbling.
Pro Tip: Check for family discounts or special jump sessions just for toddlers.
6. Explore Smith Rock State Park
A short drive from Bend, Smith Rock State Park offers scenic hiking trails that are perfect for families. The River Trail is an easy hike along the Crooked River, where kids can look for wildlife and enjoy the stunning rock formations. For more adventurous families, Smith Rock also offers climbing routes suitable for beginners.
Family-Friendly Activities:
- Hike along the river and enjoy a picnic by the water.
- Spot golden eagles, otters, and other wildlife.
- Try beginner rock climbing with a local guide.
Pro Tip: Bring plenty of water and snacks, as the park can get warm in the summer.
7. Enjoy Winter Fun at Mt. Bachelor’s Snowblast Tubing Park
During the winter months, Mt. Bachelor offers more than just skiing and snowboarding. The Snowblast Tubing Park provides family-friendly snow tubing that’s fun for all ages. With groomed lanes and a tow lift to bring you back to the top, it’s a great way to enjoy the snow without needing skiing experience.
What Families Love:
- No need for special equipment—just warm clothes and a sense of adventure.
- Groomed tubing lanes ensure a smooth, safe ride.
- Enjoy hot cocoa at the lodge after tubing.
Pro Tip: Book your tubing session in advance, as time slots can fill up quickly on weekends and holidays.
8. Bend Summer Festival and Farmers’ Markets
Bend comes alive in the summer with events like the Bend Summer Festival, which features live music, art booths, food vendors, and fun activities for kids. In addition, families can explore the local farmers’ markets, where they’ll find fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Interactive booths with activities for kids.
- Live music and street performances.
- Delicious local treats from food vendors.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and snag the best goodies from the market.
9. Take a Scenic Ride on the Cascades Lakes Scenic Byway
If your family enjoys scenic drives, the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is a must-do. This 66-mile route takes you past beautiful lakes, forests, and mountain views, with plenty of places to stop for hiking, fishing, or picnicking. Popular stops include Sparks Lake, Devils Lake, and Elk Lake.
Family-Friendly Highlights:
- Stop at lakes along the way for swimming or kayaking.
- Take family photos with stunning mountain backdrops.
- Enjoy a picnic by the water.
Pro Tip: Bring fishing gear—many of the lakes along the byway are stocked with trout.
Conclusion: Family Fun Awaits in Bend, Oregon
Bend, Oregon, offers countless opportunities for family fun, from outdoor adventures and educational attractions to festivals and winter sports. Whether you’re exploring the High Desert Museum, floating down the Deschutes River, or hitting the slopes at Mt. Bachelor, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Ready to make Bend your family’s permanent playground? Contact Strategic Realty today to explore your real estate options and find the perfect home in one of Bend’s family-friendly neighborhoods.